Playing soccer is easy- playing soccer well is another story, but can be done even if you're a beginner, especially if you are in shape, fast, and athletic.

Steps

1

Get a soccer ball- this is really a must.

2

Practice dribbling- Use the inside (instep) and outside of your foot to kick the ball while you run. Make sure your kicks are not too hard, and that the ball does not get too far away from you. The key here is control! Try to get to a point where you no longer have to look down at the ball or your feet to be in control

3

Pass with the inside of your foot. Kick the ball to a wall or partner (about 6-10 feet away). The non-kicking foot should end right next to the ball. the ball should get to the wall with good speed and on the ground. If the ball is coming off the ground it's because you are leaning back or not bending your leg. Do not pass with your toes!

4

To shoot, place the ball at least 10 feet (3.0 m) from a goal or wall. Run up to it and kick with the inside, outside or laces, as hard as possible (while still in control) Make sure your body is over the ball when you shoot, or the ball will go over the goal.

5

For throw-ins, throw the ball over your head with both hands. Both feet (any part of them) must remain on the ground at all times while doing a throw in.

6

When doing headers, hit the ball with your hairline, not the top of your head.

7

Stay on goal side of the person you are defending. Make sure to let your teammates know when you are leaving your man.

If you really want to play football, you should definitely work on it and stick with it. However, if you like cricket, it seems like the more natural sport for you to pursue since you're already good at it.

Don't worry. You will do fine. It's not about winning, but is also about taking part. Maybe get people that have played in front of you, just in case you don't feel comfortable. You also have to understand that you wont always succeed. Try your hardest, do what you think will help.

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Tips

Keep moving and try to find open spaces on the field.

Have fun! It's the most important thing about the sport.

The lingo: "Open"= no one is defending you, you can receive a pass. "Man"= lets your team mates know there is someone coming or is there to defend them or take the ball. "Square"= you are directly parallel to someone on your team, and can receive a pass. "Drop"= you are directly behind one of your team mates and can receive a back pass.

Overall team things- Make sure you do not get in the way of your teammates. Do not fight for balls with them- remember you are on the same team!

Work hard in practices and games; no slacking!

Build stamina -- soccer is basically all about running.

Don't be mean , respect your teammates .

Warnings

Always wear shin guards and drink plenty of water before, during, and after the game!

There are inherent dangers to playing this sport such as bruising, sprains, twists, or breaks of every body part. Also, concussions, dehydration, and overall exhaustion.